Claire Abernathy, associate professor of theatre, will present a research poster today during the U.S. Institute for Theatre Technology annual conference. The poster addresses the development of Snap Camera filters to facilitate storytelling as part of a shift to virtual performance during the pandemic. The filters integrate with platforms like Zoom to change the way an individual appears on screen, creating a sort of “virtual costume” for the actor.

Annette Bednar, assistant professor of clinical laboratory sciences, was co-presenter for a virtual program, “Future Proofing Your Career” as part of the new educator workshop conducted during the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science Clinical Lab Educators conference. She offered guidance on several aspects of career advancement. Bednar also served on a panel of experts for an open discussion and networking-prompted discussion that concluded the workshop.

Dr. Cherisse Jones-Branch, dean of the Graduate School and Vaughn Professor of History, is one of 52 college and university leaders selected by the American Council on Education for the 2021-22 class of its ACE Fellows Program. Nominated by Provost Alan Utter, she will interact with fellow higher education leaders across the country and participate in special activities during the year-long program. Details are online.

Dr. Maureen Dolan, associate professor of molecular biology, was a panelist for the AccelHERate program conducted Monday by the Small Business and Technology Development Center on International Women’s Day. Panelists discussed management and growth strategies, key skills for entrepreneurial success, and advice on startups. Dolan also is co-founder and vice president of Nature West, a biotech company that makes use of the chemical diversity of plants as “factories” for producing beneficial compounds.

Congratulations to Jim Patchell, head track and field coach, whose teams, both men and women, swept the Sun Belt Conference Indoor Track Championships for the second straight year. In recognition of his efforts, Patchell was recognized by the conference as Men’s and Women’s Coach of the Year for the second year in a row. The end-of-season awards are voted on by the league’s coaches. Details are online.